The Fridge Presents DECOY Sew Rad

Opening Reception: Saturday, November 14 from 7pm to 11pm

.

The Washington based artist DECOY returns to The Fridge with Sew Rad, an exhibition that embraces the artist’s origins while putting an eye toward carving out a newly developed, narrative-rich style.

DECOY grew up quilting with family and went on to begin her creative career working as a weaver at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. While on a recent trip to Wisconsin, the artist discovered “barn quilts,” or quilt square murals placed on barns. After returning to DC, DECOY began to consider how cities mirror the piecing of a quilt, built block by block.

For Sew Rad, DECOY will exhibit three quilts as well as a series of new barn quilt blocks.

“I wrote my thesis about the history of quilts that were used as tools to tell stories, communicate, and build on cultural ideals and movements. For example, quilts were used as wayfinding signage on the Underground Railroad, sewn with imagery and symbols that described the path to take to reach the next safe destination and hung outdoors,” says the artist.

This new series of works reflects the narratives created by the artist’s community in Washington, DC today, such as the friends who reside in Sursum Corda, a housing project that has been marked for redevelopment. A quilt featuring the DC flag with three hearts and two bars is emblazoned with the English translation for Sursum Corda, “Lift up your hearts.”

One wall of the gallery will be transformed into a large quilt constructed of nine wooden blocks with each telling a single story that work together to comprise a complete narrative. By melding childhood traditions with contemporary work, DECOY will share imagery that symbolizes her path.

The exhibition will also feature artist – created merchandise such as t-shirts, pillows, shoes, and more.

Gallery Hours:

Thursday – Saturday: Noon to 8pm

Sunday: 1pm to 5pm

The Fridge is located on 8th Street SE, Barracks Row in Eastern Market at 516 1/2 8th St. SE in the rear alley.